Rhus aromatica 'Gro-Low'

Rhus aromatica, commonly called fragrant sumac, is a deciduous native shrub which occurs in open woods, glades and thickets. A dense, low-growing, rambling shrub which spreads by root suckers to form thickets in the wild. Typically grows 2' tall and spreads to 8' wide. Trifoliate, medium green leaves turn attractive shades of orange, red and purple in autumn. Leaves and twigs are aromatic when bruised (hence the species name). Although smaller, the leaves resemble in appearance those of the related poison ivy (Rhus radicans). However fragrant sumac is a totally non-poisonous plant. Tiny yellow flowers bloom at the twig tips in early spring before the foliage. Separate male flowers (in catkins) and female flowers (in clusters) appear on the same plants (monoecious) or, more commonly, on different plants (dioecious). Male catkins form in late summer and persist throughout the winter until eventually blooming in spring. Female flowers give way in late summer to small clusters of hairy, red berries which may persist into winter. Fruit is attractive to wildlife.
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'Gro-Low' is a dense, low-growing, cultivar which spreads by root suckers and typically grows only to 1'-2' tall but can spread to 8' wide. No serious insect or disease problems. Some susceptibility to leaf spot, rust, scale, aphids and mites. It is asily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Tolerant of wide range of soils except those that are poorly drained

It is good for stabilizing embankments or for hard-to-cover areas with poorer soils or for wild parts of native plant gardens or naturalized areas. Informal hedges.

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